Yokai - Demons and Monsters in Japanese Folklore

妖怪 YokaiDemons and Monsters in Japanese Folklore

Image by Matthew Meyer

Scary! Kowai! We invite you to join us in celebrating the mysterious, weird, and horrific yet humorous and adorable world of yokai! Yokai is the Japanese word to describe a set of supernatural creatures, demons, and monsters originating from Japanese folklore.

Much of Japanese culture is associated with nature and kami (gods). Thus, the creation of yokai has been associated with the embodiment of fear toward the spirit world. There are many facets of what it means to be yokai in Japan and the culture is shifting rapidly. The creation of Yo-kai Watch and the usage of cute yokai in different games and other motifs in products are examples of the global reach yokai have. With this exhibit, you will be introduced to various yokai, learn of their origins, and view diverse representation of their roots in various art forms.

This special exhibit is located in the Inamori Pavilion. Special exhibit admission is as follows: - General admission ... $5.00 - Students, seniors, military w./ ID ... $4.50 - JFG Members ... $4.00* Special exhibit admission is separate from JFG general admission